National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon admits to CNN Philippines that while there is no actual invasion in Mindanao, one of the grounds for declaring martial law, there is an ongoing rebellion there.

In an overwhelming vote by the lawmakers from both chambers of Congress to extend martial law in Mindanao for a third time until the end of 2019. It was a vote powered by the Duterte's allies following a full-court press by administration officials to convince lawmakers. An extension of martial law is needed to quell rebellion and terrorism down South - not everyone agree though.